Taylor Lake Fishing Guide: Best Spots Near The Dalles

Discover Taylor Lake, a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts near The Dalles, with its warm waters teeming with exciting catches like largemouth bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish. Cast your line for impressive bass attracted by lures resembling smaller fish and crayfish. It's perfect for a vibrant day in nature. If you're seeking even greater variety, the nearby Columbia and John Day Rivers offer thrilling salmon and smallmouth bass opportunities. You can maximize your adventure by considering a guided trip. Feel the thrill and immerse yourself in Taylor Lake's incredible biodiversity as you explore more of what awaits.

Key Takeaways

  • Taylor Lake offers vibrant largemouth bass fishing with lures mimicking smaller fish and crayfish.
  • Bluegill and redear sunfish are abundant in the warm waters of Taylor Lake.
  • Proximity to The Dalles Dam provides additional fishing opportunities in the Columbia River.
  • The Russian Wilderness nearby makes Taylor Lake ideal for trout angling.
  • Taylor Lake is a popular destination for warmwater fish species near The Dalles.

Overview of Fishing Near The Dalles

Fishing near The Dalles offers an exciting array of opportunities for both seasoned anglers and beginners alike. From the bustling Columbia River to the serene Taylor Lake, you'll find plenty of spots to cast your line. The fishing season kicks off in April and runs through October, when the Columbia and John Day Rivers teem with smallmouth bass. During these months, the Columbia is also a hotspot for salmon fishing.

If you're planning a trip in late spring or early summer, don't miss the shad fishing below the John Day Dam in June and early July. For a unique experience, try your hand at Northern Pike Minnow Sport Reward fishing between May and September. May is also the perfect time for channel catfish in the lower John Day River, especially during the Rufus Catfish Derby. The Columbia River, near The Dalles, is renowned for excellent walleye fishing available almost all year. The Dalles Pool area is known for its year-round fishing opportunities, including walleye and sturgeon. Bethany Lake offers a similar variety of fish species and techniques for an immersive fishing experience.

Taylor Lake is particularly popular, with rainbow trout stocked each spring and fall. It also boasts a warmwater fishery featuring largemouth bass and redear sunfish. Timothy Lake, located southeast of Portland, offers year-round trout fishing with a 2-per-day limit, making it another excellent option for anglers in the area. For those who prefer detailed planning, the ODFW Weekly Fishing Report and the Trout Stocking Schedule are essential resources to keep you informed on the latest conditions and stocking dates.

Popular Species in the Region

Taylor Lake's warm waters teem with a rich variety of fish species that attract anglers from all around. If you're looking for an exciting day out on the water, you're in for a treat. The lake is home to a vibrant collection of warmwater fish, including largemouth bass that grow to impressive sizes. These bass are fond of lures that mimic smaller fish and crayfish, making for an exhilarating fishing experience. You'll also find bluegill and redear sunfish, often keen to bite on natural baits. Panfish abound, adding to the diverse fishing opportunities. The lake's proximity to the Russian Wilderness and its diverse trout species make it a favored destination for anglers. Lake of the Ozarks, a renowned fishing spot in Missouri, is also famous for its excellent largemouth bass fishing. Additionally, Clear Lake in California is known for its abundant catfish, making it a hotspot for catfish enthusiasts.

The Dalles region is a hotspot for game fish, drawing anglers with its year-round options. Trout, including rainbows, offer both challenge and reward. In addition to the plentiful trout, anglers have logged a significant number of catches for smallmouth bass, making them a frequent catch in the area. Walleye fishing is consistently available on the Columbia River. Salmon enthusiasts can target Chinook and Coho during peak seasons, and sturgeon fishing varies with the seasons.

  • Largemouth bass: Plentiful and sizeable.
  • Bluegill and redear sunfish: Common and lively.
  • Trout: Rainbow and other types.
  • Smallmouth bass: Abundant in nearby waters.
  • Salmon and sturgeon: Seasonal favorites.

Exploring the Columbia River

The Columbia River's vast expanse offers an angler's paradise brimming with thrilling fishing opportunities. Stretching across Washington and Oregon, it includes tributaries like the Lewis, Cowlitz, and Willamette Rivers. You're in for an adventure with its rich bounty of salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, walleye, and shad, making it one of the premier fishing locations in the lower 48 states. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, the river offers something for everyone. The best time of year for fishing in this area often aligns with the salmon and steelhead runs, providing ample opportunities for anglers.

Start your journey at the Bonneville Dam, a hotspot for sturgeon and salmon. For high-energy salmon fishing, head to Buoy 10 near Astoria, where the action is unbeatable. Portland serves as a central hub, giving you access to salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon. Navigate up to The Dalles Dam to explore more fishing possibilities within the Bonneville pool. The nearby Taylor Lake offers additional fishing opportunities, where locals use crappie jigs and salmon gear to catch a variety of fish. To ensure a successful and memorable trip, consider opting for experienced and knowledgeable guides who provide custom-built boats and top-of-the-line equipment. For anglers seeking a family-friendly location, Canby Pond offers a designated area for youth and disabled anglers, ensuring accessibility and enjoyment for all.

Consider booking a guided trip to enhance your experience. Charter services offer expertise, gear, and access to prime locations along the river. With multiple seasons for different species, plan your trip during peak times, such as the spring and fall salmon runs or the sturgeon seasons. It's a fishing expedition you won't forget!

Alternative Lakes for Fishing

While the Columbia River offers incredible fishing, the area near The Dalles boasts a variety of alternative lakes that promise their own unique angling experiences. Whether you're after the thrill of catching Rainbow trout or the challenge of reeling in a hefty Smallmouth bass, these lakes offer a diverse array of fishing opportunities. Pine Hollow Reservoir is a favorite spot for Rainbow trout enthusiasts, while Rowland Lake is a go-to for those targeting both Smallmouth bass and Rainbow trout. The Deschutes River presents over 36 spots for fishing, making it a haven for anglers keen to explore new waters. With productive sturgeon fishing in The Dalles, anglers can find additional thrilling experiences in these alternative lakes. Both Walter Wirth Lake and Walling Pond offer accessible fishing platforms, making them ideal for anglers of all skill levels.

For those craving a mix of species, the John Day River is renowned for its Smallmouth bass and seasonal Salmon fishing. Each location not only offers diverse fish species but also comes with its own set of features, making every trip a new adventure. The Upper Sacramento River in Northern California also offers year-round fishing opportunities, adding to the allure for dedicated anglers seeking variety.

  • Pine Hollow Reservoir: Ideal for Rainbow trout.
  • Rowland Lake: Perfect for a bass and trout combo.
  • Deschutes River: Offers numerous fishing spots.
  • John Day River: Known for Smallmouth bass and Salmon.
  • Columbia River: Year-round Walleye fishing paradise.

These lakes promise unforgettable fishing experiences, tailored to your angling desires.

Accessing Buck and Pyramid Lakes

Getting to Buck and Pyramid Lakes is an adventure you won't want to miss. Start your journey behind Harriet Lake, following NFSR 57. For Buck Lake, take a left on NFSR 58, then a right on NFSR 5810, and finally a left on NFSR 210. It's approximately 8-9 miles on NFSR 5810 before you reach NFSR 210. The road is barely marked, but look for spray paint at the intersection. Prepare for unimproved roads, but with good driving skills, you'll make it. A large pullout for about 10 cars is available for parking, with the trailhead conveniently nearby. A short 1/2 mile hike leads you to the lake, where you can find a couple of camp spots and fish for rainbow and cutthroat trout. Buck Lake spans an area of 8 acres, providing ample space for fishing enthusiasts. Remember to follow catch-and-release regulations for trout in some streams in the area. Ice fishing can be popular here, with anglers using jigging rods for optimal control and bite detection. For those planning to ice fish, wearing insulated bibs will ensure comfort in freezing conditions.

For Pyramid Lake, take NFSR 58 to NFSR 210. The road conditions require cautious driving, but even a Subaru can handle it. Drive about 5 miles on NFSR 58 before reaching NFSR 210. Once there, a parking area for about 10 cars awaits. A 1/2 mile hike brings you to Pyramid Lake, offering rough bank access, 8-10 camp spots, and the chance to catch rainbow trout.

Hideaway Lake Fishing Adventures

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Elmore County, Idaho, Hideaway Lake offers an unforgettable fishing adventure for anglers of all skill levels. This 2.5-acre gem, part of the Boise River Drainage, is home to Arctic Grayling and Cutthroat Trout, making it a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts. Regularly stocked with Westslope Cutthroat and Arctic Grayling, Hideaway Lake guarantees a rewarding experience for everyone. Water from Hideaway Lake eventually discharges into other bodies like Lake Wallenpaupack, ensuring a continuous flow and maintaining ecological balance in the region. Experience the thriving ecosystem that supports diverse wildlife, enhancing the overall natural beauty of the area. The ecological plasticity of certain fish species can impact local ecosystems, offering an intriguing aspect of biodiversity for visitors to explore.

  • Diverse Species: Catch Arctic Grayling and Cutthroat Trout, both observed regularly in the lake.
  • Stocking History: Benefit from decades of stocking efforts, with Arctic Grayling added as recently as 2024.
  • Licensing Made Easy: Secure your fishing license online, by phone, or at local vendors, assuring a hassle-free adventure.
  • Sustainability Focus: Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) conducts regular surveys and provides stocking reports to maintain healthy fish populations.
  • Beautiful Setting: Enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this secluded lake, perfect for a day of relaxation and fishing.

Seasonal Fishing Highlights

Fishing at Taylor Lake near The Dalles offers a dynamic experience that changes with the seasons, keeping anglers engaged year-round. In spring, target rainbow trout, bass, bluegill, and catfish. Late March to May is prime, especially April, when trout are stocked regularly—over 1,000 each time! Use natural baits, prepared lures, and flies for trout. Bass respond well to lures that mimic smaller fish and crayfish. Enjoy easy bank access or use a float tube or small boat for better reach.

Summer shifts focus to bass and panfish, active from mid-spring to early fall. Warm waters see bass thriving in shallow, weedy shorelines. Lures imitating smaller fish and crayfish are effective, while sunfish eagerly bite on natural baits fished below a bobber. Catch sunfish near their nests with flies and lures during their spawning season. Weightless techniques can be particularly effective in the clear waters of summer, allowing for a more natural presentation.

As fall arrives, trout fishing heats up again with cooler temperatures. From late September to November, over 3,000 trout, including broodstock rainbows, are stocked. Coho salmon, which were accidentally introduced to Lake Tahoe in the 1940s, do not negatively impact native fish species and can be an interesting catch when fishing in nearby waters. Consider using a medium power rod for handling larger trout and varied water conditions. Continue using natural and prepared baits, lures, and flies. Although winter's harsh conditions limit fishing, determined anglers can still find success during breaks in the weather.

Fishing Regulations to Know

When you're gearing up for a fishing trip to Taylor Lake near The Dalles, it is imperative to know the ins and outs of the local fishing regulations. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a newcomer, comprehending these rules ascertains a fun and legal adventure. First, make sure anyone aged 12 or older has an Oregon Angling License. If you're targeting salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, or halibut, a Combined Angling Tag is necessary. Catch-and-release is the norm for trout, salmon, and steelhead, and it's important that they're released unharmed and not removed from the water. In certain areas, the retention of wild steelhead is prohibited, such as from the mouth of the Illinois River upstream to the Cole Rivers Hatchery Dam. Anglers may also find the real-time feedback of a flasher useful for ice fishing conditions in the area. Short ice fishing rods offer enhanced sensitivity and control, which can be advantageous in detecting subtle bites and managing line in cold-water conditions.

Be mindful of gear restrictions; artificial flies and lures are generally limited in streams. Also, if you're fishing in the mainstem Columbia River or its tributaries, a Columbia River Endorsement is required. It's possible to purchase an Oregon fishing license online, at an ODFW office, or from licensed vendors.

Consider these essential reminders:

  • Licensing: Anglers aged 12+ need an Oregon Angling License.
  • Catch Limits: For salmon and steelhead, the daily aggregate limit is 2 adult fish.
  • Gear: Specific restrictions apply regarding artificial flies and lures.
  • Species-Specific Rules: Sturgeon fishing is catch-and-release only in the Central Zone.
  • Endorsements: Required for certain species and locations.

Stay informed and enjoy your fishing trip!

Post-Fishing Activities and Local Spots

After a rewarding day of fishing at Taylor Lake near The Dalles, why not explore the vibrant local scene that offers a variety of activities and attractions? Begin your evening by unwinding at one of the area's lively drinking establishments. Whether you prefer the cozy atmosphere of Zim's Brau Haus or the unique selections at Route 30 Bottles & Brews, there's something for everyone. If craft beers are more your style, head to Freebridge Brewing, Sedition Brewing Co, or the Bargeway Pub for some local flavors. Fishing enthusiasts should ensure they have a valid fishing license, as failure to have a valid license can result in fines and legal penalties. It's easy to obtain a fishing license at Walmart, where you can also pick up any necessary gear.

For a taste of culture and history, visit The Dalles Riverwalk Trail or explore Old St. Peter's Landmark, which features a 176-foot steeple and a striking red brick exterior. Book lovers shouldn't miss Klindt's, Oregon's oldest bookstore. The Riverview Trail at Deschutes River State Recreation Area offers stunning views, while the Fort Dalles Museum provides a peek into the past.

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy tastings at Sunshine Mill Winery, Tierra de Lobos Winery, and Jacob Williams Winery. Savor the experience with breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge. For a family-friendly outing, visit Riverfront Park for picnicking, bird watching, or a lively game of frisbee. There's no shortage of enjoyable activities after a day on the lake!

Planning Your Fishing Trip

Planning an exciting fishing trip to Taylor Lake near The Dalles starts with a bit of preparation to guarantee a successful outing. First, make sure you know how to get there—Taylor Lake is conveniently located off Interstate 84 at Exit 82, making it easily accessible. Timing your visit is imperative; the best months for trout fishing are April, May, September, and October. Checking the ODFW Weekly Fishing Report will keep you informed about the latest stocking schedules. Taylor Lake, managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, was recently stocked on March 15, ensuring a good supply of fish. When planning your trip, consider the option to purchase a fishing license online to save time and ensure compliance with state regulations. Remember that licenses ensure compliance with regulations to protect aquatic ecosystems and promote sustainable fishing.

When packing your gear, remember that the lake is stocked with rainbow trout and offers bass and sunfish. You'll want to bring a mix of natural baits, lures, and flies for trout. For bass, use lures that imitate smaller fish and crayfish. Basic fishing gear works well for sunfish, particularly with natural baits below a bobber.

Check the ODFW Weekly Fishing Report for trout stocking updates. Pack a variety of baits and lures for trout, bass, and sunfish. Consider bringing a float tube or small boat for better access. Verify the weather conditions in the Columbia River Gorge. Familiarize yourself with the best fishing techniques for each species.

Your fishing adventure at Taylor Lake will surely be memorable!

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